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The highly anticipated knockout match featuring the English side and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has kicked off at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Highlights

• National anthems were sung before the match, with South Africa's rousing song earning praise.
• Team Lineups were revealed with each team fielding strong elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to take part even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

Seventh Over: The Proteas 41 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13)

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on in place of Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to quick work in the field by Beaumont on the boundary.

Sixth Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 22, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

The South African opener, looking in great touch, hit two consecutive fours from Linsey Smith. A full toss was sent through long off, followed by another poor delivery through the covers.

5th Over: South Africa 27 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10)

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Brits her wicket, but the throw by Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. Brits then responded by smashing a wide delivery through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball which rose over Brits' bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 13, Brits 6)

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team are the best fielding side in this competition.

3rd Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 5 runs)

A possible catch went begging. Tazmin Brits hammered a delivery back at Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

2nd Over: The Proteas 14 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions hovered over the venue, with the lights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games yet served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for four.

First Over: South Africa 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8 runs, Brits 0)

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, driving the first ball elegantly through the covers for four. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The playing surface reportedly differs from the one used in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer extra bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

The two sides have had inconsistent form in the competition so far. The English team are considered favourites, but the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have won earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The pressure is on with both sides targeting a place in the final.

Keep following for more updates as the match unfolds.